Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsey Chen
Hi Kelsey, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always loved writing and felt a natural passion for it, but I never truly believed I could become a children’s book author and illustrator. The idea first came up thanks to my cousin, who suggested, ‘Hey, you should write a book.’ I immediately brushed it off, thinking, ‘No way—writing children’s books is way too hard!’
In late 2021, my life took a heartbreaking turn when I lost my third child due to a near-fatal miscarriage. The grief was overwhelming, and I found myself haunted by endless ‘what ifs’ and questions of ‘What could I have done differently?’ Then, in March 2022, I found out I was expecting again—this time with twins. My heart was so full, and while their arrival brought immense joy, I still felt the grief of the child I had lost. With the twins, I now have four beautiful children, yet I often think, ‘If not for that loss, I would have five.’
Through that mix of joy and grief, I found myself writing—a story that helped me imagine life if I had all five children. That writing grew into the Five Little Dumplings book series. My journey into writing children’s books became a way to celebrate both the love and the loss in my life. Each story I write is, in a way, a tribute to the beauty and resilience of family.
I never thought creating children’s books would be something I could or would do, but now, each book I write has a real purpose and meaning behind it. My stories are intended to bring uplifting and encouraging messages to young children, helping early readers learn, laugh, and connect with stories they can truly relate to and find joy in.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wouldn’t describe this journey as smooth—it’s more of an adventurous and pivotal experience. As an author, I’m navigating this path and learning along the way. Each road I take leads to a unique destination, but the journey itself never truly ends. Some destinations are incredibly rewarding, while others feel like small but meaningful steps in the right direction.
Some days, the road brings opportunities for collaboration. Other days, it leads me to share my books with new schools and audiences. Sometimes, it takes me into deep and fascinating conversations with strangers. There are no obstacles here—only valuable learning experiences for now.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an author for children picture books. I illustrate and write the books on my own. I want my books to be known for educational, uplifting, and fun reading. I began this journey not only as a way to cope with my loss but also to encourage my four young children, all of whom are at a stage of learning to read or speak (ages 2-6). I wanted to create stories that would inspire them in their own journeys. My first book, Five Little Dumplings Get Ready for School, was written to motivate my kids—especially my oldest son and daughter, who often struggled with getting out the door each morning because they didn’t enjoy going to school. So, I began singing silly songs to make getting ready fun and help them see that school was a place where they could accomplish amazing things.
I believe what sets my books apart from others are the uplifting messages conveyed in an easy to understand way. For example, one of my books is about kindness, where I teach kids that kindness can be seen as small actions of grace. Furthermore I explain that grace “is a gift given just because, from a heart that is kind and filled with love.” I want to convey these important messages for children to understand and exemplify in their everyday lives.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
My hopes in the next 5 years is to expand my author visits no neighboring cities, further expanding my reach and sharing my stories. In the next 10 years I hope to have established multiple collaboration opportunities of different kinds that share the same values as I do that really bring joy and kindness to children all around the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sites.google.com/view/fivelittledumplings/home
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fivelittledumplings/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fivelittledumplings
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kelsey-Chen/author/B0CJXQ1FNC?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1734499907&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true
